Yorktown Victory Monument — Attraction in Gloucester Point

The Yorktown Victory Monument is a powerful and iconic tribute to one of the most decisive moments in American history—the victory at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781, which effectively ended the Revolutionary War. Located near the waterfront in historic Yorktown, Virginia, the monument stands tall and proud, offering visitors a tangible connection to the nation’s founding and the sacrifices that secured independence.

Commissioned by the Continental Congress in 1781 but not completed until 1884, the monument features classical architectural elements and is crowned by a statue of Liberty holding a sword and a laurel wreath. Its base is engraved with key events, names, and acknowledgments of American and French alliances. The monument itself is not only beautiful but also steeped in meaning, serving as both a commemorative piece and a symbol of international cooperation and perseverance.

Surrounding the monument is a peaceful park-like setting with views of the York River, adding to the reflective atmosphere. Informational plaques help provide historical context, making it accessible for all ages, whether you're a history buff or a casual visitor. The monument’s location also places it near other significant landmarks, including the battlefield and colonial-era structures, allowing it to serve as a starting point for deeper exploration.

Although it is not reported to be haunted like other Yorktown sites, the monument carries a strong emotional and historical resonance. It reminds visitors of the cost of freedom and the unity required to achieve it. Whether visited during a quiet morning or as part of a historical tour, the Yorktown Victory Monument offers a solemn, inspiring, and educational experience.

In short, the monument is a must-see for anyone interested in American history, providing a striking visual centerpiece to the story of victory, independence, and remembrance...

Awesome monument overlooking the York River. Celebrating the victory achieved by alliances. This is an excerpt from nps.gov about it's history.

On October 24, 1781, Lt. Col. Tench Tilghman, Washington's aide-de-camp, reached Philadelphia and the Continental Congress with the "glorious" news of the surrender of Cornwallis' army at Yorktown, on October 19th. On Monday, October 29, Congress officially recognized this great victory and by resolution directed:

That the United States in Congress assembled, will cause to be erected at york, in Virginia, a marble column, adorned with emblems of the alliance between the United States and his Most Christian Majesty; and inscribed with a succinct narrative of the surrender of earl Cornwallis to his excellency General Washington, Commander in Chief of the combined forces of America and France; to his excellency the Count de Rochambeau, commanding the auxilliary troops of his most Christian Majesty in America, and his excellency the Count de Grasse, commanding in chief the naval army of France in the Chesapeake.

It has been damaged twice by lightning, and repaired twice. The first was completed in 1957, and the last repair was in 1990. It is about 95 feet tall and quite impressive. Beautiful views of the York and surrounding area are seen...

Victory monument in Yorktown is, in my mind, the most impressive monument within the historical triangle commemorative of the victory that indeed sealed the fate of the British and was the most instrumental victory in claiming our countries independence.

Though plans were halted for an entire century, finally one hundred years after the promise to build, construction would take place between 1881 and 1884. It stands over 80foot tall majestically overseeing the York River, only a short distance from the visitor center, downtown Yorktown, and the open battlefields itself.

It's hard to miss, and absolutely should be on your list of things to see, rather it be just passing through actual town or exploring the battlefield in its entirety.

A very humbling and incredible spot to stand and reflect on the events that occurred there over two centuries ago and how they forged America and...